Challenges and Solutions 

The football pitch and carpark were not accessible for construction purposes and these facilities were utilised by local footballers seven days per week. FM Conway established a safe and fully segregated working zone by erecting temporary fencing around the perimeter while the steep embankment was excavated to create a level working platform. All vehicle movements were carried out under the guidance of a trained traffic marshall and parking suspensions were arranged with Maidstone Borough Council to enable crane operations to be carried out safely from the public highway without impacting on traffic.
 

Outcomes

The nature and scope of this project required specialist subcontractors to be engaged for precast concrete (Millbank), steel welding (Whitecliffe), spectator seating (Seating 2000) and cladding works (JRB). Early engagement with novated subcontractors and the appointment of qualified delivery partners with existing knowledge of MUFC was critical to establishing a team with the capability to deliver all works within the 12 week construction window.

FM Conway’s Project Manager, John Briggs, worked with subcontractors to develop a master programme of activity highlighting key milestones and interdependencies, in order to manage the sequencing of operations. Regular communication regarding methods and risk ensured a safe and productive working environment was maintained throughout the construction phase.
 

Terry Casey, Co-owner of Maidstone United, explained:
“Your team always made us feel as if we were the most important clients that they had ever dealt with. It was a high profile job and the eyes of thousands of our supporters were upon us.  The Project Managers on site demonstrated excellent communication skills and they were always ready to explain how the project was unfolding. We finished on time and it has been a rewarding experience for the staff and supporters of Maidstone United FC. We are all very grateful."